The Thorn Birds Short Essay - Answer Key

1. Why is the romance between Meggie Cleary and Father Ralph ill-fated?

Father Ralph is a very ambitious man, and he has to choose between Meggie and his career within the Catholic Church. He eventually chooses his career.

2. What makes Meggie's doll special?

Agnes is special because she is a birthday gift for Meggie's fourth birthday. In addition, Agnes was not donated or handmade but was bought at the store in Wahine. Meggie admired the doll when she first went to the store in Wahine seven months before.

3. What causes disagreements between Frank and Paddy?

Frank does not like working on the sheep ranch. He wants to join the Army and have adventures far away. Frank also disobeys Paddy by helping Fiona, which Paddy is opposed to. Paddy's upbringing taught that the woman is to care for the household and small children by herself. Frank is also very protective of Meggie, and females are not to be seen as weak on the farm.